We live in an era where social media is essential if you want to stay on top of what’s new and trending.
Among them, TikTok is a must-have platform, especially for younger generations.
There are countless songs that went viral on TikTok and found a second wave of popularity.
In this article, we’ll introduce songs released from the Showa to Heisei eras that achieved revival hits thanks to TikTok.
Among these hit songs, many were actually popular even earlier and have cover versions as well.
Try comparing the original tracks with the cover versions and enjoy the differences.
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- A revival hit driven by social media! Heisei-era masterpieces that are resonating with Gen Z today
- Revival hits driven by social media! Classic Showa-era songs popular with Gen Z
- A Showa-era song that had a revival hit on YouTube Shorts
- Popular songs on TikTok
- [Classic Showa Kayō Hits] The captivating Showa-era pop songs beloved even by younger generations
- An addictive song used on TikTok
- Hits that resonate across generations! Popular 1990s songs on TikTok
- Cute! Various adorable songs that trended on TikTok
- Revival among the youth? Japanese dance music that was a hit in the 1980s. Showa-era dance tracks.
- Pick up the songs that went viral on social media! Reiwa-era dance numbers
Nostalgic yet new! Songs that re-broke on TikTok and became revival hits (1–10)
Naughty SunNEW!ORANGE RANGE
Here’s a signature summer tune from ORANGE RANGE that evokes the blazing summer sun.
Its driving beats and catchy call-and-response overlap to create an irresistible mix that freely crosses between rock and pop.
Released as a single in July 2007, it was chosen as the opening theme for the smash-hit drama “Hanazakari no Kimitachi e ~ Ikemen Paradise ~,” generating buzz and reaching No.
3 on the weekly Oricon chart.
It was later included on the classic album “PANICFANCY,” and has remained widely loved even in the Reiwa era as a revival hit.
It’s a high-energy anthem perfect for moments when everyone wants to go all out and get hyped—like cheering on school clubs or singing at karaoke.
TimingBurakku Bisukettsu
This song by Black Biscuits, released in 1998, is the signature track of the unit born from the TV show “Uchimura and Nanbara’s Urinari!!” It became a million-selling hit, reaching No.
2 on the Oricon charts.
Centered on the theme of “timing,” it sings about everyday missed connections and frustrations while conveying a positive message that embraces them.
With its catchy melody and easy-to-remember lyrics, the song has remained beloved across generations.
In 2022, it made a comeback for the first time in 20 years on the Nippon TV music special “Best Artist 2022,” and went viral on TikTok.
It’s the perfect track for reminiscing about fun memories or refreshing your mood.
Spring, Summer, Autumn, WinterHilcrhyme
A song that weaves a love story wrapped in the scenery of each season.
Released in September 2009 as Hilcrhyme’s debut single, it was used as the ending theme for many TV programs and has been loved across generations.
Cherry blossoms in spring, the sea in summer, autumn leaves, and winter snowscapes—the deepening bond between two people is expressed through heartwarming lyrics and melody as the seasons change.
Widely recognized by younger audiences on TikTok, it enjoyed a revival hit.
It’s a track you’ll want to listen to at the turn of the seasons, or when you’re looking back on memories with a loved one.
God of RomanceHirose Kōmi
When you think of Kohmi Hirose’s signature songs, this one surely comes to mind.
Released in 1993, it became a massive hit as the theme for Alpen’s ski equipment commercials.
It’s a pop tune that captures the feelings of a woman optimistic about love, vividly reflecting the atmosphere of the 1990s.
True to Hirose’s nickname, the “Queen of Winter,” it remains a winter classic that you still hear when the season comes around.
With its bright, catchy vibe, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser at karaoke.
It’s also perfect for a drive, making it a great pick for a winter date.
I’ll be by your side.Aoyama Teruma ft. SoulJa
Released in January 2008 as a collaboration between Thelma Aoyama and SoulJa, this song features poignant lyrics about a long-distance relationship, blending Aoyama’s gentle vocals with SoulJa’s powerful rap to perfect effect.
It became so popular that it was recognized by Guinness World Records as the best-selling full-track mobile download in Japan.
The song carries a strong message that hearts remain close even when people are far apart, and it continues to be cherished by those living away from their loved ones.
It has also reached younger audiences through TikTok, gaining new fans.
A timeless classic that moves the hearts of many across generations.
Marunouchi SadisticShiina Ringo
This track, included on Ringo Sheena’s debut album Muzai Moratorium released in 1999, was reportedly conceived during a homestay in the UK and originally featured placeholder lyrics entirely in English.
The lyrics interweave station names from Tokyo Metro’s Marunouchi Line, leaving a strong impression as they portray both the emptiness of urban life and a burning passion for music.
With its sharp depiction of the complex emotions of youth, the song continues to resonate with many listeners.
It showcases Sheena’s singular worldview and keen social eye, pairing an urbane sound with provocative lyrics to capture the subtle emotional currents of people living in the modern age.
A Member of the Fire BrigadeKōda Kumi
The resurgence of nostalgic songs has been a hot topic on social media! Kumi Koda’s 2010 cover of Rats & Star’s “Megumi no Hito” became a revival hit, especially among young people.
On TikTok, songs that make an impact in a short time are popular, so this catchy tune is a perfect fit.
The choreography, including the pose where you make a peace sign near your eyes, is addictively fun.
Humorous, rhythmic songs seem to resonate with people no matter the era.
kissorijinarurabu
On TikTok, not only trendy songs but also many revival hits of old favorites are emerging.
ORIGINAL LOVE’s 1993 release “Kiss” was used as the theme song for the drama “Adult Kiss.” It has gained popularity among teens, especially through dance videos, and has become a song loved across generations.
The track features a jazzy sound reminiscent of soul music.
Why not give this moody, mature charmer a listen?
Roco LotionORANGE RANGE
A signature song by ORANGE RANGE that was used as the commercial jingle for the carbonated drink MATCH.
Hailing from Okinawa, the band always evokes a burst of summer energy, making them a perfect fit for a soda commercial.
Released in December 2004, the track is also included on the albums “musiQ” and “ORANGE.” The lyrics depict a protagonist feeling liberated on a tropical beach, stirring up the joy of summer and the excitement of new encounters.
It’s a song you’ll want to play in the heat of the season and is sure to fire up any karaoke session.
It’s also great to listen to while reminiscing about your youth.
cherry (sweet cherry; cherry fruit)Otsuka Ai
A classic that expresses a sweet and adorable feeling of love.
Released in December 2003 as Ai Otsuka’s second single, this song is known as one of her signature works.
It features an upbeat rhythm and bright melody, with memorable lyrics that compare a couple’s sweet relationship to cherries.
Written when Ai Otsuka was around 18 to 19 years old, it captured many hearts as a pure love song.
It has also been used as a cheer song for high school baseball and is loved across generations.
Recently, it’s had a resurgence on TikTok, gaining support from a new generation as well.
It’s a recommended track not only for those in love but also for anyone who wants a boost of energy.